Thu Feb 20 20:20:00 UTC 2025: **Brooklyn Anti-Israel Protest Turns Violent**
BROOKLYN, NY – An anti-Israel protest in Brooklyn’s Borough Park neighborhood escalated into violence Tuesday evening, resulting in clashes between protesters and counter-protesters, and at least one arrest.
The protest, organized by the Pal-Awda activist group, targeted a real estate event and drew a large crowd chanting anti-Israel slogans, including “Zionists go to hell” and “How many kids did you kill today?”. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and some displayed aggressive behavior, including shouting threats and making obscene gestures towards Jewish residents and children.
A significant police presence was on hand as the protest, which began around 5:30 p.m., attracted counter-protesters waving Israeli flags and some carrying MAGA flags. Several physical altercations broke out between the opposing groups.
One man, Anthony Frausto, 42, was arrested and charged with assault after allegedly punching a 61-year-old man. The victim received medical attention at the scene. Police also reported finding a large knife at the scene, though it was not reportedly used in any attack. The protest concluded around 9 p.m.
The incident drew condemnation from Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY), who criticized the violence and linked it to the broader “Free Palestine” movement. Similar anti-Israel demonstrations have occurred across the U.S. following the October 7th Hamas attacks in Israel.
First Piper 